“I am astounded that something like this has taken place in that area. There is normally a thriving community round there, so for someone to go into those shops to rob them surprises me.

“As I understand it, crime has been going down in Clifton and across York. It must have been terrible for the people who were working in the shop. I just hope the police find those responsible and bring them to court for the justice they deserve.”

Staff in the shop declined to comment yesterday, and a spokesman for McColl’s said it was company policy not to issue any statements while police investigations were ongoing.

Coun Helen Douglas, who lives close to the shop, said the attack was shocking, especially as community safety had improved in Clifton over recent years.

“It just seems unreal.

“Things have improved massively in the 13 years I have been here because of a lot of work by the police, the council, the local church and schools.”

• A 23-year-old man was last night arrested by police in connection with the robbery and was being held in custody.